Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia

Otar Shamugia: "This year, the National Environmental Agency will receive 13 million GEL more than the previous year to expand and strengthen the modern monitoring network."

At the joint session of the Agrarian Issues, Environmental Protection and Natural Resources, Sectoral Economy and Economic Policy, Regional Policy and Self-Government and Finance-Budget Committees,  the candidate for the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr.  Otar Shamugia, emphasized the importance of developing early warning systems in the country in the face of accelerated global warming.

"On August 3, 2023, the large-scale natural disaster in the Racha region, Shovi resort, which unfortunately is a visible example of climate change, made us witness the greatest tragedy. We needed to prepare a scientifically supported, objective conclusion on the disaster. Therefore,  we involved foreign experts (who have extensive experience) in analyzing similar natural processes while developing the conclusion. We conducted an expedition on the Buba glacier and thoroughly investigated the situation.

 In a few days, the Agency specialists will meet local experts with whom we previously met and held several discussions on the mentioned issues. We will listen to their opinions, and no later than next week, we will present the final report to the public, which will also include recommendations on the urgent measures", said the candidate for the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, Mr. Otar Shamugia in the Parliament.
According to Mr. Shamugia, by the end of 2024, 245 observational hydrometeorological stations will be operational throughout the country, which will improve the early warning system. Early warning systems will be set up in communities particularly vulnerable to floods.

Moreover, to improve the weather forecasting and early warning systems, an information system will be adopted in collaboration with the Finnish Meteorological Service, which is at the forefront of this effort. Modern monitoring systems will be installed at an additional 11 landslide locations, and this number will increase to 29 by the end of the year to improve the monitoring of geological processes. With the involvement of highly qualified foreign experts and through modern approaches, existing threats will be assessed in all glacial valleys, and recommendations and solutions will be prepared accordingly.